Best tribute takes to the skies

A NEW aircraft in honour of football legend George Best was launched today by his family. An iconic image of the winger, who died in November, features on the side of the Flybe plane, which will service the Belfast to Manchester route.

A NEW aircraft in honour of football legend George Best was launched today by his family.

An iconic image of the winger, who died in November, features on the side of the Flybe plane, which will service the Belfast to Manchester route.

Best's father Dickie, four sisters, brother and son Calum attended the launch at Belfast City Airport.

Calum, who sprayed champagne over the Q400 aircraft, described the last few months as an emotional roller coaster.

On the latest tribute, he said: "It is quite surreal seeing my father on the side of a plane.

"He was a modest man but I am sure he would have approved.

"It is a fitting tribute as it connects the city where he was born and the city where his legacy started."

Dickie Best unveiled an image of his son in his Manchester United prime which was hidden beneath a red cloth over the front of the plane.

Mr Best hailed the idea, and said the family had no hesitation in backing it.

He said: "The life size image of George on the side of the plane in his trademark red strip and characteristic footballing stance is a wonderful tribute and I reckon if George could be with us today he would be quite taken with the idea of kicking a ball at 30,000 feet."